Boat Registration and Licenses in Washington DC

What to Register

All vessels, including kayaks and canoes.

Exemptions

• Boats documented with the U.S. Coast Guard.

• Boats from other countries kept on District waters for less than 50 consecutive days.

• Registered boats from other states kept on District waters for less than 50 consecutive days.

• Boats used exclusively for racing.

• Lifeboats.

Requirements and Procedures

Boat titles and registrations are handled by the Metropolitan Police Department's Harbor Patrol.

1. Visit the Metropolitan Police Department's Harbor Patrol office located at 550 Water St. NW. Bring your boat's title if you've recently located to DC.
2. Complete a Title/Registration form (unavailable online for downloading).
3. Pay a 6% titling tax fee, a $2 title fee and a registration fee based on your boat's length (with either check or money order only).

For other boat registration situations (newly purchased, boats with liens, etc.) call (202) 727-4582 and ask for "boat registration."

Fees

• Less than 16 feet: $15

• 16 feet to less than 26 feet: $25

• 26 feet to less than 40 feet: $35

• More than 40 feet: $60

Renewals and Replacements

Boat registrations expire each year on December 31. Renewal notices are mailed in November.

Renew Online

Currently unavailable.

Renew by Mail

Send to the address located on the renewal notice.

Renew in Person

Drop off your renewal notice at:

• 550 Water St. NW

• Washington, DC 20024

Replace Lost Registration

Visit the Harbor Patrol office with proof of identification. Free.

Boater License

Anyone operating a boat in the District of Columbia is required to have a boating safety certificate.

Boater Safety Courses

• Online: Take an approved course through BoaterExam.com.

• Classroom: The Metropolitan Police Department's Harbor Patrol conducts courses.

Your Opinion Matters To Us!